Genie und Wahnsinn: Antworten der modernen Neurowissenschaften
Date
06.11.2025 18:00 - 19:30 online über ZOOM
Course type
Seminar
Scope
2 Lessons, 2 DFP Points
Cost
Completion
Teilnahmebestätigung
Language
German
Registration
Registration Deadline
06.11.2025 10:00
Inhalt
Is there a link between genius and mental illness? A scientific analysis of the popular myth of the ‘mad genius’.Keywords: #Creativity #Mental illness #Depression #Schizophrenia
The connection between exceptional creativity and mental disorders has fascinated humanity since ancient times. Modern neuroscience now allows us to take a more nuanced look at this complex topic. While historically the terms “genius and madness” were often used simplistically, current research paints a much more nuanced picture: creativity is composed of various building blocks that can interact differently with mental disorders. There is scientific evidence of links between creative achievement and affective disorders and the bipolar spectrum in particular. The lecture critically examines these connections and places them in the current scientific context.
Main Topics
- Definition and historical development of the concept of genius
- Analysis of the various components of creativity (person, process, environment, product)
- Scientific evidence on the connection between mental disorders and creativity
- Differentiated consideration of various mental disorders (affective disorders, schizophrenia)
- Significance of environmental factors and social networks for creative performance
- Critical reflection on the distinction between fame and actual creativity
Targets
Participants know the scientific definition of creativity and its various components
Participants understand the difference between popular myths and scientific findings on the subject of “genius and madness.”
Participants can differentiate between the various connections between mental disorders and creativity.
Participants are familiar with the most important research findings on creativity and mental disorders.
Participants understand the importance of environmental factors and social networks for creative achievements.
Participants can distinguish between fame and actual creative achievement.
Methodology
PowerPoint presentation followed by discussion
Target Group
- Doctors (especially psychiatrists and neurologists)
- Psychological psychotherapists
- Psychiatric nursing staff
- Art therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Creative therapists
- Lecturers at art colleges
- Social workers
Speaker
Prof. Dr. Johannes Kornhuber
Klinikdirektor, Psychiatrische und Psychotherapeutische Klinik